snakewood

[ sneyk-wood ]

noun

1. the heavy, dark-red wood of a South American tree, Piratinera guianensis, used for decorative veneers, musical instrument bows, etc.
2. the tree that is the source of this wood.

Word History and Origins

Origin of snakewood¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; snake + wood ¹

Example Sentences

Then windows of fine linen, snakewood canes, Scarfs, opera hats, in use where fashion reigns.

From Project Gutenberg

Being made, like the others in this figure, of that unyielding material snakewood, the experiment, though in the right direction, cannot be said to have been successful.

From Project Gutenberg

Of the imported “natural” sticks, the principal are olive, ebony, furze, snakewood, pimento, cinnamon, partridge, and bamboo.

From Project Gutenberg

He was well, but neatly, dressed, and had hooked to his wrist a thin snakewood cane attached to a crook handle.

From Project Gutenberg

Several species of Strychnos are considered infallible remedies for snake bites; hence are known as snakewood.

From Project Gutenberg